DETROIT — With August approaching, college football is starting their conference previews. Recently, at Ford Field, the Mid-American Conference showed off head football coaches and promising players.
MAC Commissioner Jon Steinbrecher welcomed the journalists, sports broadcasters and new media personnel. “Let me also take a moment to welcome a few new folks to the Conference family. Kent State head coach Sean Lewis, Ball State director of athletics Beth Goetz, and Buffalo director of athletics Mark Alnutt – welcome to MACaction!” He further added, “The trajectory of the Mid-American Conference continues in an upward and positive fashion and speaks to the depth and strength of the league, not only in football – but across our entire portfolio.”
The projected front-runners included Ohio, Buffalo, Northern Illinois and Toledo. Noted new rule changes for this season involve the kick off and low blocks. The Marathon Mid-American Conference football championship is slated for Friday November 30, at Ford Field.
Steinbrecher added, “Earlier this summer the United States Supreme Court issued a ruling that cleared the way for states to implement sports wagering. Since that time there has been considerable debate over what that means for intercollegiate athletics. As early as last year our membership began discussing the possibility of more wide-spread legal sports wagering. Like our colleagues in other conferences, we will continue to watch and monitor this matter.”
Junior McMullen from Oak Park was highlighted to be a defensive force for Miami this year. The junior linebacker had 57 tackles last season as a sophomore. He praised his high school coach, Greg Carter for improving his fundamentals.
Eastern Michigan Coach Chris Creighton previewed his team and highlighted the defense. “We have developed guys who are ready to step in and we’ve recruited some players,” said Creighton. “We have very high expectations for our defense.”
Quarterback is the big variable for EMU. The Eagles also have to rebuild their receiving depth. Defensive lineman (6’5”) Jeremiah Harris and offensive lineman Jimmy Leatiota were the featured student-athletes.
Steinbrecher and Associate Commissioner Ken Mather had some fun with a new promotion. They announced that teams would fly a Jolly Roger flag after “any big win.” the victory.
“I have provided a MAC Jolly Roger flag to each institution and have asked that after each victory, home or road, that the flag be run up the flag pole and remain there until the next game,” said Steinbrecher. “I hope we develop a fun tradition of players, students, boosters, whoever taking part in this victory celebration. Let’s collectively fly the Flag.”
It was apparent the new media stations, Madden Football game action and twitter posting locations were popular with the student-athletes in attendance.
(Photo courtesy of Lars Hjelmroth, Rolco Sports & Entertainment Network)